U.S. patent application number 13/300304 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-23 for ventilating system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Corey S. Jacak, Daniel L. Karst, Robert G. Penlesky, Mirko Zakula. Invention is credited to Corey S. Jacak, Daniel L. Karst, Robert G. Penlesky, Mirko Zakula.
Application Number | 20130130612 13/300304 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48427396 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130130612 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Penlesky; Robert G. ; et
al. |
May 23, 2013 |
VENTILATING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a ventilating system
including a housing. The housing can include an inlet through which
air can be received within the housing and an outlet through which
the air can exit the housing. The housing can include an inner
surface and an outer surface and an electrical aperture. A fan can
be supported in the housing and it can be operable to generate a
flow of air. A panel can be coupled to the housing adjacent to the
electrical aperture. The panel can include a clamp aperture and can
be coupled to either the inner surface or the outer surface. The
panel can also be coupled to the housing so that the clamp aperture
is oriented either substantially parallel or substantially
perpendicular to the inlet.
Inventors: |
Penlesky; Robert G.;
(Waukesha, WI) ; Zakula; Mirko; (New Berlin,
WI) ; Karst; Daniel L.; (Beaver Dam, WI) ;
Jacak; Corey S.; (West Bend, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Penlesky; Robert G.
Zakula; Mirko
Karst; Daniel L.
Jacak; Corey S. |
Waukesha
New Berlin
Beaver Dam
West Bend |
WI
WI
WI
WI |
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48427396 |
Appl. No.: |
13/300304 |
Filed: |
November 18, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
454/237 ;
29/428 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 2013/205 20130101;
F24F 7/013 20130101; Y10T 29/49826 20150115; E04B 9/006 20130101;
F24F 13/078 20130101; F24F 7/007 20130101; F21V 33/0088 20130101;
F24F 7/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/237 ;
29/428 |
International
Class: |
F24F 7/00 20060101
F24F007/00; B23P 19/00 20060101 B23P019/00 |
Claims
1. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, and an electrical
aperture; a fan being supported in the housing and operable to
generate a flow of air; a panel being coupled to the housing
substantially immediately adjacent to the electrical aperture, the
panel comprising at least one clamp aperture, the panel being
configured and arranged to be coupled to at least one of the inner
surface and the outer surface, and wherein the panel being further
configured and arranged so that when the panel is coupled to the
housing, the at least one clamp aperture is oriented in one of a
first position and a second position.
2. The ventilating system of claim 1, wherein the first position
comprises being disposed substantially parallel to the inlet of the
housing and the second position comprises being disposed
substantially perpendicular to the inlet of the housing.
3. The ventilating system of claim 1, wherein the panel comprises a
first body and a second body.
4. The ventilating system of claim 3, wherein the first body
comprises the at least one clamp aperture and a panel aperture and
the second body comprises at least two positioning flanges and a
knock-out region.
5. The ventilating system of claim 4, wherein the housing comprises
a first set of apertures and a second set of apertures disposed
substantially adjacent to the electrical aperture.
6. The ventilating system of claim 5, wherein at least one aperture
of the first set of apertures and at least one aperture of the
second set of apertures is configured and arranged to receive the
at least two positioning flanges.
7. The ventilating system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
clamp aperture is configured and arranged to receive at least one
electrical connection.
8. The ventilating system of claim 1 and further comprising a
grille coupled to the housing, and wherein the grille comprises a
plurality of louvers.
9. The ventilating system of claim 8 and further comprising a lamp
housing coupled to at least one of the grille and the housing.
10. The ventilating system of claim 1 and further comprising a duct
connector assembly coupled to one of the inner surface and the
outer surface.
11. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, and at least one
outlet aperture substantially adjacent to the outlet; a ventilating
assembly being supported in the housing and operable to generate a
flow of air; a grille being operatively coupled to at least one of
the ventilating assembly and the housing; and a duct connector
assembly being coupled to the housing substantially adjacent to the
outlet, the duct connector assembly comprising a base region and a
connection region, the base region including at least one flange
including a flange aperture, and wherein the duct connector
assembly is configured and arranged so that at least a portion of
the at least one flange is disposed immediately adjacent to at
least one of the inner surface and the outer surface so that the
flange aperture is disposed substantially adjacent to the at least
one outlet aperture.
12. The ventilating system of claim 11 and further comprising a
positioning tab extending from the base region, and wherein the
positioning tab is disposed on a substantially opposite side of the
base region relative to the at least one flange.
13. The ventilating system of claim 12 and further comprising an
outlet recess disposed through a portion of the housing, and
wherein the outlet recess is configured and arranged to receive at
least a portion of the positioning tab.
14. The ventilating system of claim 11 and further comprising a
duct adaptor coupled to the connection region.
15. The ventilating system of claim 14, wherein the duct adaptor
comprises a first region, a second region, and a third region, and
wherein the first region comprises a diameter substantially
similarly sized to a diameter of the connection region, the second
region comprises a lesser-sized diameter relative to the first
region, and the third region comprises a variably-sized
diameter.
16. The ventilating system of claim 11 and further comprising a
damper assembly operatively coupled to a portion of the duct
connector assembly.
17. The ventilating system of claim 16, wherein the damper assembly
comprises a flap moveably coupled to the duct connector assembly,
and wherein a sealing panel is coupled to the flap.
18. The ventilating system of claim 11 and further comprising a
lamp housing coupled to the grille.
19. The ventilating system of claim 18, wherein the lamp housing is
configured and arranged to receive at least one illumination
device.
20. The ventilating system of claim 19, where the at least one
illumination device comprises one of an incandescent light, a
fluorescent light, a compact fluorescent light, a halogen light,
and light-emitting diodes.
21. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising a plurality of walls and a plurality of apertures
disposed through the walls; a ventilating assembly being supported
in the housing and operable to generate a flow of air; a grille
being operatively coupled to at least one of the ventilating
assembly and the housing; and a mounting assembly coupled to a
portion of the housing, the mounting assembly comprising a
plurality of fit elements configured and arranged to reversibly
engage at least a portion of the plurality of apertures, at least
two mounting apertures configured and arranged to substantially
align with at least a portion of the plurality of apertures, at
least two lead-in features configured and arranged to substantially
align the housing with respect to the mounting assembly, and at
least two tabs configured and arranged to at least partially align
the mounting assembly with respect to a structure to which the
mounting assembly is coupled, and wherein the at least two tabs are
capable of being oriented in both of a substantially vertical and a
substantially horizontal position.
22. The ventilating system of claim 21, wherein the mounting
assembly comprises two first brackets, two second brackets, and two
third brackets, and wherein the two first brackets comprise the at
least two lead-in features, the two third brackets comprise the
plurality of fit elements, and two second brackets comprise the at
least two tabs.
23. The ventilating system of claim 22 and further comprising at
least two support members coupled to the third brackets and at
least partially supported by the two second brackets.
24. The ventilating system of claim 23, wherein the at least two
support members are configured and arranged to extend and retract
so that the mounting apparatus can comprise more than one size.
25. The ventilating system of claim 21 and further comprising a
lamp housing coupled to the grille.
26. The ventilating system of claim 25, wherein the lamp housing is
configured and arranged to receive at least one illumination
device.
27. The ventilating system of claim 26, where the at least one
illumination device comprises one of an incandescent light, a
fluorescent light, a compact fluorescent light, a halogen light,
and light-emitting diodes.
28. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising at least one receiving member and at least one support
aperture disposed through the receiving member; a ventilating
assembly being reversibly coupled to the housing and comprising a
support plate operatively coupled to at least one wall, the
ventilating assembly further comprising a motor being coupled to
the support plate, a fan being operatively coupled to the motor,
the fan being at least partially disposed within the at least one
wall and being operable to generate a flow of air, at least one
coupling tab being disposed on a portion of the at least one wall,
the at least one coupling tab including a support recess, and
wherein the at least one coupling tab is configured and arranged to
reversibly engage the at least one receiving member so that the
support recess substantially aligns with the at least one support
aperture; and a grille being operatively coupled to the ventilating
assembly.
29. The ventilating system of claim 28 and further comprising at
least one spring support extending from the at least one wall of
the ventilating assembly and at least one set of support flanges
positioned on the grille.
30. The ventilating system of claim 29 and further comprising at
least one grille spring movably coupled to the at least one spring
support and the at least one set of support flanges.
31. The ventilating system of claim 28 and further comprising a
motor control compartment coupled to the housing.
32. The ventilating system of claim 31 and further comprising a
motor control apparatus disposed within the motor control
compartment, wherein the motor control apparatus is configured and
arranged to control operational parameters of the motor.
33. The ventilating system of claim 32, wherein the motor control
apparatus comprises a potentiometer.
34. The ventilating system of claim 32, wherein the operational
parameters comprise at least one of flow rate and motor operation
duration.
35. The ventilating system of claim 28, wherein the housing
comprises two receiving members and the at least one wall comprises
two coupling tabs.
36. The ventilating system of claim 28, wherein at least one of the
fan and the at least one wall comprise a polymer.
37. The ventilating system of claim 28 and further comprising a
lamp housing coupled to the grille.
38. The ventilating system of claim 37, wherein the lamp housing is
configured and arranged to receive at least one illumination
device.
39. The ventilating system of claim 38, wherein the at least one
illumination device comprises one of an incandescent light, a
fluorescent light, a compact fluorescent light, a halogen light,
and light-emitting diodes.
40. A method of assembling a ventilating system, the method
comprising: providing a housing including at least one receiving
member and at least one support aperture disposed through the at
least one receiving member, and the housing further comprising an
inlet and an outlet; assembling a ventilating assembly comprising
the steps of coupling a support plate to a substantially arcuate
wall, the substantially arcuate wall comprising at least one
coupling tab and at least one spring support, and the at least one
coupling tab including a support recess, disposing a fan within the
substantially arcuate wall, wherein the fan and the substantially
arcuate wall comprise a polymer, coupling a motor to the support
plate, and operatively coupling the motor and the fan so that the
fan is operable to generate a flow of air; and operatively coupling
the ventilating assembly to the housing by reversibly engaging the
at least one coupling tab and the at least one receiving member so
that the at least one support aperture and the at least one support
recess substantially align.
41. The method of claim 40 and further comprising coupling a grille
to the at least one spring support.
42. The method of claim 41 and further comprising coupling a lamp
housing to the grille.
43. The method of claim 40 and further comprising uncoupling the
ventilating assembly from the housing by disengaging the at least
one coupling tab from the at least one receiving member.
44. The method of claim 40 and further comprising coupling a motor
control compartment to the housing.
45. The method of claim 44 and further comprising disposing a motor
control apparatus within the motor control compartment, and wherein
the motor control apparatus is configured and arranged to control
operational parameters of the motor.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the motor control apparatus
comprises a potentiometer.
47. The method of claim 40 and further comprising operatively
coupling the housing to a mounting assembly, and wherein the
mounting assembly is configured and arranged to extend and retract
so that the mounting apparatus comprises more than one size.
48. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, at least one
outlet aperture substantially adjacent to the outlet, and an
electrical aperture; a ventilating assembly reversibly coupled to
the inner surface of the housing and being operable to generate a
flow of air; a panel being coupled to the housing substantially
immediately adjacent to the electrical aperture, the panel
comprising at least one clamp aperture, the panel being configured
and arranged to be coupled to at least one of the inner surface and
the outer surface, and wherein the panel being configured and
arranged so that when the panel is coupled to the housing, the at
least one clamp aperture is oriented in one of a first position and
a second position; and a duct connector assembly being coupled to
the housing substantially adjacent to the outlet, the duct
connector assembly comprising a base region and a connection
region, the base region including at least one flange including a
flange aperture, and wherein the duct connector assembly is
configured and arranged so that at least a portion of the at least
one flange is disposed immediately adjacent to at least one of the
inner surface and the outer surface so that the flange aperture is
disposed substantially adjacent to the at least one outlet
aperture.
49. The ventilating assembly of claim 48, wherein the first
position comprises being disposed substantially parallel to the
inlet of the housing and the second position comprises being
disposed substantially perpendicular to the inlet of the
housing.
50. The ventilating assembly of claim 48 and further comprising a
mounting assembly coupled to the housing, and wherein the mounting
assembly is configured and arranged to extend and retract so that
the mounting apparatus can comprise more than one size.
51. The ventilating system of claim 48 and further comprising a
duct adaptor coupled to the connection region.
52. The ventilating system of claim 51, wherein the duct adaptor
comprises a first region, a second region, and a third region, and
wherein the first region comprises a diameter substantially
similarly sized to a diameter of the connector region, the second
region comprises a lesser-sized diameter relative to the first
region, and the third region comprises a variably-sized
diameter.
53. The ventilating system of claim 48 and further comprising a
damper assembly operatively coupled to a portion of the duct
connector assembly.
54. The ventilating system of claim 53, wherein the damper assembly
comprises a flap moveably coupled to the duct connector assembly,
and wherein a sealing panel is coupled to the flap.
55. A ventilating system comprising: a housing including an inlet
through which air is received within the housing and an outlet
through which the air exits the housing, the housing further
comprising an inner surface and an outer surface; a ventilating
assembly being operable to generate a flow of air; a mounting
assembly coupled to a portion of the housing, the mounting assembly
comprising a plurality of fit elements configured and arranged to
reversibly engage at least a portion of the housing, and at least
two tabs configured and arranged to at least partially align the
mounting assembly with respect to a structure to which the mounting
assembly is coupled, and wherein the at least two tabs are capable
of being oriented in both of a substantially vertical and a
substantially horizontal position; and a duct connector assembly
being coupled to the housing substantially adjacent to the outlet,
the duct connector assembly comprising at least one flange, and
wherein the duct connector assembly is configured and arranged so
that at least a portion of the at least one flange is disposed
immediately adjacent to at least one of the inner surface and the
outer surface.
56. The ventilating system of claim 55 and further comprising an
electrical aperture being disposed through a portion of the
housing.
57. The ventilating system of claim 56 and further comprising a
panel being coupled to the housing substantially immediately
adjacent to the electrical aperture, the panel comprising at least
one clamp aperture, the panel being configured and arranged to be
coupled to at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface,
and wherein the panel being configured and arranged so that when
the panel is coupled to the housing, the at least one clamp
aperture is oriented in one of a first position and a second
position.
58. The ventilating system of claim 57, wherein the first position
comprises being disposed substantially parallel to the inlet of the
housing and the second position comprises being disposed
substantially perpendicular to the inlet of the housing.
59. The ventilating system of claim 55, wherein the mounting
assembly is configured and arranged to extend and retract so that
the mounting apparatus can comprise more than one size.
60. The ventilating system of claim 55, and further comprising a
duct adaptor coupled to the duct connector assembly.
61. The ventilating system of claim 60, wherein the duct adaptor
comprises a first region, a second region, and a third region, and
wherein the first region comprises a diameter substantially
similarly sized to a diameter a portion of the duct connector
assembly, the second region comprises a lesser-sized diameter
relative to the first region, and the third region comprises a
variably-sized diameter.
62. The ventilating system of claim 55 and further comprising a
damper assembly operatively coupled to a portion of the duct
connector assembly.
63. The ventilating system of claim 62, wherein the damper assembly
comprises a flap moveably coupled to the duct connector assembly,
and wherein a sealing panel is coupled to the flap.
64. The ventilating system of claim 55 and further comprising a
grille coupled to at least one of the ventilating assembly and the
housing.
65. The ventilating system of claim 64 and further comprising a
lamp housing coupled to the grille.
66. The ventilating system of claim 65, wherein the lamp housing is
configured and arranged to receive at least one illumination
device.
67. The ventilating system of claim 66, wherein the at least one
illumination device comprises one of include an incandescent light,
a fluorescent light, a compact fluorescent light, a halogen light,
and light-emitting diodes.
68. The ventilating system of claim 55, wherein the ventilating
assembly comprises a motor being coupled to the support plate, a
fan being operatively coupled to the motor, and at least one
coupling tab being disposed on a portion of the at least one wall,
the at least one coupling tab including a support recess, and
wherein the at least one coupling tab is configured and arranged to
reversibly engage the housing.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Conventional lighting and ventilating systems can combine
elements of a conventional room ventilating fan with a light
fixture. These apparatuses can have a bulky, unaesthetic
appearance, can employ a complicated design, can fail to adequately
cool the light fixture, and can inefficiently arrange the
components of the apparatus. Additionally, many conventional
lighting and ventilating systems can include only limited
capabilities for installation into structures, such as a
building.
SUMMARY
[0002] Some embodiments of the invention provide a ventilating
system including a housing. In some embodiments, the housing can
include an inlet through which air can be received within the
housing and an outlet through which air can exit the housing. In
some embodiments, the housing can include an inner surface, an
outer surface, and an electrical aperture. In some embodiments, a
fan can be supported in the housing. The fan can be operable to
generate a flow of air. In some embodiments, a panel can be coupled
to the housing substantially immediately adjacent to the electrical
aperture. In some embodiments, the panel can comprise at least one
clamp aperture and can be configured and arranged to be coupled to
at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface. In some
embodiments, the panel can also be configured and arranged so that
at least one clamp aperture can be disposed in one of a first
position and a second position.
[0003] Some embodiments of the invention provide a ventilating
system including a housing. In some embodiments, the housing can
include an inlet through which air can be received within the
housing and an outlet through which air can exit the housing. In
some embodiments, the housing can include an inner surface, an
outer surface, and an outlet aperture disposed substantially
adjacent to the outlet. In some embodiments, a fan can be supported
in the housing. The fan can be operable to generate a flow of air.
In some embodiments, a grille can be operatively coupled to a
portion of the housing. In some embodiments, a duct connection
assembly can be coupled to the housing substantially adjacent to
the outlet. In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly can
comprise a base region and a connection region. In some
embodiments, the base region can include at least one flange
including a flange aperture. In some embodiments, the duct
connector assembly can be configured and arranged so that at least
a portion of the flange can be disposed immediately adjacent to at
least one of the inner surface and the outer surface so that the
flange aperture can be substantially aligned with at least one
outlet aperture.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a ventilating system
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0005] FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective views of a mounting assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0006] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a portion of the mounting
assembly of FIG. 2.
[0007] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a mounting assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 4A is a front view of a bracket of the mounting
assembly of FIG. 2.
[0009] FIG. 4B is a front view of a bracket according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 5 is an expanded perspective view of a grille, housing,
and ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 7 is an expanded perspective view of a portion of the
mounting assembly of FIG. 2.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a side view of a portion of a housing according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of a housing
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 10 is an expanded perspective view of a portion of a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a panel according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a panel coupled to a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a panel coupled to a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 12C is a perspective view of a panel coupled to a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 12D a perspective view of a panel coupled to a housing
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an electrical compartment
and ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a motor control compartment
and ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a duct connector assembly
and a ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0024] FIG. 16 is an expanded perspective view of a portion of a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views of a duct connector
assembly coupled to a portion of a housing according to some
embodiments of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a duct connector assembly
and a duct adapter according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0027] FIG. 19 is a front view of a duct connector assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a ventilating assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the ventilating
assembly of FIG. 20.
[0030] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a portion of a housing and
a ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a portion of a ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 24 is an expanded perspective view of portions of a
ventilating system according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a grille according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a lamp housing according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 27 is a front view of brackets according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a housing including a
ventilating assembly according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0037] FIG. 29A is a partial perspective view of a portion of a
housing according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0038] FIG. 29B is a perspective view of a housing and an accessory
according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including,"
"comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as
well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise,
the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and
variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and
indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further,
"connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or
mechanical connections or couplings.
[0040] The following discussion is presented to enable a person
skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention.
Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and
applications without departing from embodiments of the invention.
Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited
to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope
consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The
following detailed description is to be read with reference to the
figures, in which like elements in different figures have like
reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to
scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit
the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will
recognize the examples provided herein have many useful
alternatives that fall within the scope of embodiments of the
invention.
[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a ventilating system 10 according to one
embodiment of the invention. Some embodiments of the system 10 can
include several components and devices that can perform various
functions. In some embodiments of the present invention, the system
10 can include a housing 12, which can be configured and arranged
to receive components of the system 10. The system 10 generally can
include a ventilating assembly 14, a lamp housing 16, at least one
illumination device 18, electrical connections 20, a ventilation
outlet 22, at least one mounting apparatus 24 which can be used to
mount the ventilating system 10 to a surface or a support
structure, a lens 26, a motor 28, and at least one electrical
socket 30.
[0042] In some embodiments, the system 10 can be used to illuminate
and/or ventilate any room, area, or space. In some embodiments, the
system 10 can illuminate the room, area, or space independently of
ventilating the room, area, or space. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the system 10 can be configured and arranged to
substantially only ventilate the room, area or space. In other
embodiments, the system 10 can be configured and arranged to
substantially only illuminate the room, area or space.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can
comprise any material which can withstand varying temperatures
(e.g., to withstand any heat radiated and/or conducted from the
illumination devices, the motor, or other components) while
providing structural support to the system 10. In some embodiments,
the housing 12 can be formed of sheet metal; however, the housing
12 also can be fabricated from ceramic or a polymer comprising a
relatively high melting temperature. The housing 12 can be formed
into any shape, including, but not limited to, a rectangular
box-like shape, an oval shape, a hemispherical shape, a spherical
shape, a pyramidal shape, or any other shape. The housing 12 can
faun a base or a similar support structure of the system 10.
Further, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can provide points and
areas of attachment for other components of the system 10, as
described in further detail below.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can
be used in conjunction with a mounting apparatus 24 for installing
the system 10 to any variety of support structures or surfaces. Any
type of mounting apparatus 24 can be included with the housing 12.
The mounting apparatus 24 can be positioned on the housing 12 so
that the housing 12 can be supported with respect to any
surrounding structure into which it can be installed. In other
embodiments, the housing 12 can be coupled to a support structure
or a surface using a variety of fasteners and coupling methods, as
described below.
[0045] In some embodiments, the mounting apparatus 24 can comprise
at least one first mounting bracket 32, at least one second
mounting bracket 34, and at least one third mounting bracket 36.
For example, in some embodiments, the mounting apparatus 24 can
comprise two first mounting brackets 32, two second mounting
brackets 34, and two third mounting brackets 36, as shown in FIG.
2. In some embodiments, the first mounting brackets 32 and the
third mounting brackets 36 can be configured and arranged to couple
the housing 12 to the mounting apparatus 24 and the second mounting
brackets 34 can be configured and arranged to couple the mounting
apparatus 24 to a structure (e.g., a portion of a building such as
a joist). In some embodiments, the second mounting brackets 34 can
be substantially perpendicular to the third mounting brackets
36.
[0046] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the housing 12
can be coupled to the mounting apparatus 24 via the first and third
mounting brackets 32, 36. In some embodiments, the first mounting
brackets 32 can each include at least one lead-in feature 38 that
can be configured and arranged to at least partially guide and
retain a portion of the housing 12 in place substantially adjacent
to the first and the third mounting brackets 32, 36. For example,
in some embodiments, the first mounting brackets 32 can be coupled
to the mounting apparatus 24 so that they are spaced apart by a
distance substantially similar to the width and/or length of the
housing 12 so that opposing sides of the housing 12 can be
substantially immediately adjacent to the first mounting brackets
32, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Moreover, in some embodiments, the
first mounting brackets 32 can each comprise two lead-in features
38 disposed so that the lead-in features 38 are substantially
adjacent to corners of the housing 12. For example, in some
embodiments, the mounting apparatus 24 can comprise four lead-in
features 38 substantially adjacent to four corners of the housing
12.
[0047] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, at
least a portion of the lead-in features 38 can be disposed
substantially between the first and the third mounting brackets 32,
36. For example, in some embodiments comprising a substantially
square-shaped housing 12, the first and the third mounting brackets
32, 36 can be coupled together so that they form a substantially
square-shaped, generally central portion of the mounting apparatus
24. Furthermore, the first and third mounting brackets 32, 36 can
be disposed in the mounting apparatus 24 so the first mounting
brackets 32 are on substantially opposite sides of the housing 12,
as are the third brackets 36. As a result, the lead-in features 38
can be disposed substantially in the corners of a portion of the
mounting apparatus 24 and substantially immediately adjacent to
corners of the housing 12 for use in positioning and coupling the
mounting apparatus 24 to the housing 12.
[0048] In some embodiments, the third mounting brackets 36 can
comprise features configured and arranged to further aid in
coupling the housing 12 to the mounting apparatus 24, as shown in
FIGS. 4A and 4B. In some embodiments, the third brackets 36 can
comprise at least one snap-fit element 40 positioned to align with
at least one first aperture 42 on the housing 12. For example, in
some embodiments, each of the third brackets 36 can comprise two
snap-fit elements 40 (e.g., snap-fit and/or spring-loaded
protrusions, buttons, or other retaining features) configured and
arranged to engage two first apertures 42 disposed through portions
of the housing 12. In some embodiments, when the housing 12 is
positioned substantially within the first and the third brackets
32, 36, the lead-in features 38 can, at least partially guide the
housing 12 into position where the snap-fit elements 40 can engage
the first apertures 42 disposed through the housing 12. Although
referred to as snap-fit elements 40, in some embodiments, these
features can comprise other structures capable of engaging the
first apertures 42 (e.g., not spring-loaded or snap-fit).
Accordingly, once in position, the snap-fit elements 40 can
substantially automatically engage the first apertures 42 when the
apertures 42 are immediately adjacent to the elements 40. Moreover,
in some embodiments, at least one of the third brackets 36 can
comprise at least one mounting aperture 44 and the housing 12 can
comprise at least one second aperture 45 so that a conventional
fastener (e.g., a screw, a nail, etc.) can be used in lieu of or
together with at least one of the snap-fit elements 40. In some
embodiments, one or more of the third brackets 36 can comprise
mounting apertures 44 (e.g., disposed substantially between the
snap-fit elements 40) so that sides of the housing 12 immediately
adjacent to the third brackets 36 can be coupled to the mounting
apparatus 24 in multiple manners, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. For
example, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can be positioned with
respect to the mounting apparatus 24 via the first mounting
brackets 32 (e.g., via the lead-in features 38) and the third
mounting brackets 36 (e.g., via the snap-fit elements 40 and/or the
mounting apertures 44).
[0049] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4B, the third mounting
brackets 36 can comprise alternative configurations. As shown in
FIG. 4B, one or more of the third brackets 36 can comprise the
snap-fit elements 40 disposed in different locations. For example,
relative to FIG. 4A, one or more of the snap-fit elements 40 can be
rotated approximately 180 degrees, which can enable the
manufacturer or user to position additional elements or details
coupled to or disposed through portions of the third mounting
brackets 36.
[0050] In some embodiments, the second brackets 34 can at least
partially enable coupling of the mounting apparatus 24 to a
structure. In some embodiments, the system 10 can be at least
partially installed in a building for use in lighting and/or
ventilating areas of the building (e.g., a bathroom, a bedroom, a
kitchen, etc.). By way of example only, in some embodiments, the
system 10 can be coupled to building support structures (e.g.,
joists, trusses, etc.) for support, positioning, and relative ease
in accessing the building's ventilation system (e.g., ducts or
vents to the environment). Accordingly, in some embodiments, the
second brackets 34 can at least partially enable coupling to the
building support structures.
[0051] In some embodiments, the second brackets 34 can comprise
elements for mounting the system 10 to and/or within a building. In
some embodiments, the second brackets 34 can comprise at least one
tab 46 and at least one coupling structure 48. For example, as
shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the mounting apparatus
24 can comprise two second brackets 34 and each of the second
brackets 34 can comprise two tabs 46 (i.e., four total) and two
coupling structures 48 (i.e., four total). In some embodiments, the
tabs 46 can at least partially laterally extend from the second
brackets 36 and can enable positioning of the mounting apparatus 24
with respect to the building structure. Moreover, in some
embodiments, at least some of the tabs 46 can comprise a tab
aperture 50 disposed through a portion of the tabs 46 that can
receive a conventional fastener (e.g., a screw, a nail, etc.) or
other coupling apparatus. As a result, when disposing the system 10
within the building structure, at least a portion of the tabs 46
can function to align the mounting apparatus 24 with portions of
the building structure, and in some embodiments, at least a portion
of the tabs 46 can receive fasteners via the tab apertures 50 to
further coupling of the system 10 to the building.
[0052] In some embodiments, the coupling structures 48 can further
enhance installation of the system 10. In some embodiments, the
coupling structures 48 can comprise a conventional fastener 52
coupled to the second brackets 34. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6
and 7, in some embodiments, the coupling structures 48 can be
substantially positioned at corners of the mounting apparatus 24 so
that after aligning the mounting apparatus 24 using the tabs 46,
the conventional fasteners 52 of the coupling structures 48 can be
used to couple the system 10 to the building structure (e.g., by
engaging the fasteners with the building structure). By way of
example only, in some embodiments, the coupling structures 48 can
comprise the conventional fasteners 52 (e.g., screws, as shown in
FIG. 7) pre-disposed through a portion of the second brackets 34
and positioned at an angle (e.g., 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60
degrees, 90 degrees, etc.) for ease of engaging the fasteners 52
with the building structure. In some embodiments, by including
pre-disposed (e.g., permanently or temporarily affixed to the
coupling structures 48) conventional fasteners 52, installation can
be made more simple because the installer need not keep track of,
and position, the fasteners 52 during installation.
[0053] In some embodiments, the mounting apparatus 24 can comprise
at least one support member 54. In some embodiments, the mounting
apparatus 24 can comprise two or more support members 54 (e.g.,
four support members 54). In some embodiments, the support members
54 can extend from one second bracket 34 to another second bracket
34 (e.g., some or all of a length of the mounting apparatus 24).
For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments the support
members 54 can be coupled to the second brackets 34 substantially
adjacent to the coupling structures 48 (e.g., adjacent to the
corners of the mounting apparatus 24) and can be at least partially
received by flanges 56 of the third brackets 36. As a result, in
some embodiments, the support members 54 and the second brackets 34
can at least partially define a perimeter of the mounting apparatus
24.
[0054] For example, as shown in FIG. 27, at least a portion of the
support members 54 can be coupled to the second mounting bracket
34. In some embodiments, lateral edges of at least a portion of the
support members 54 and the second mounting brackets 34 can comprise
coupling structures. As shown in FIG. 27, in some embodiments, at
least some of the support members 54 and the second mounting
brackets 34 can comprise at least one tab 55 and at least one
aperture 57. For example, in some embodiments, the support member
54 can engage (e.g., slidably engage) the second mounting bracket
34 so that the aperture 57 of the second mounting bracket 34 can at
least partially receive a portion of the tab 55 of the support
member 54 or vice versa (e.g., the aperture 57 of the support
member 54 can at least partially receive the tab 55 of the second
mounting bracket 32). The interaction of the tab 55 and aperture 57
can at least partially support the engagement and coupling of the
support members 54 and the second mounting brackets 34.
[0055] In some embodiments, the support members 54 can be
configured and arranged to fit multiple building structures. As
shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the support members
54 can comprise an expandable functionality. For example, in some
embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2A, the support members 54 can
comprise a substantially retracted configuration so that the first
brackets 32 and the second brackets 34 are substantially
immediately adjacent. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2B, in some
embodiments, the support members 54 can comprise a substantially
extended configuration so that the first brackets 32 and the second
brackets 34 are spaced apart a distance correlating to the distance
that the support members 54 extend. As a result, in some
embodiments, a single mounting apparatus 24 can be coupled to
building structures comprising different configurations. For
example, a manufacturer can manufacture systems 10 that can be
installed in buildings with joists disposed approximately sixteen
inches apart, twenty-four inches apart, and/or any other desired
distance.
[0056] As a result of at least a portion of the elements of the
mounting apparatus 24, the system 10 can be installed within a
building structure. Briefly, in some embodiments, the housing 12
can be coupled to the mounting apparatus 24 via elements of the
third brackets 36 (e.g., snap-fit elements 40, mounting apertures
44, etc.) and the first brackets 32 (e.g., the lead-in features
38). In some embodiments, after coupling the housing 12 to the
mounting apparatus 24, the system 10 can be coupled to the building
structure. For example, in some embodiments, the mounting apparatus
24 can be at least partially aligned via the tabs 46 and coupled to
the building using the coupling structures 48 and fasteners 52.
Moreover, in some embodiments, one of the second brackets 34 can be
coupled to a portion of the building structure (e.g., a joist) and
the support members 54 can be extended a necessary distance to
reach an adjacent building structure (e.g., another joist).
Accordingly, after extending the support members 54, another of the
second brackets 34 can be coupled to the adjacent building
structure in a similar manner. In other embodiments, the mounting
apparatus 24 can be coupled to the building structure and then the
housing 12 can be coupled to the mounting apparatus 24.
[0057] In some embodiments, the previously mentioned installation
procedure can be employed when installing the system 10 within a
building structure that is at least partially unfinished. For
example, in some embodiments, the system 10 can be installed prior
to installation of a ceiling or other similar building features. As
a result, the system 10 can be simply installed because of the
generally free access available to trusses, joists, etc. However,
in some embodiments, the system 10 can be configured and arranged
to be installed within a building structure that is already
substantially completed (e.g., a retrofit installation).
[0058] In some embodiments, when the building structure is already
substantially completed, the first and the second brackets 32, 34
can comprise additional features capable of coupling the housing 12
to the mounting apparatus 24. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, in
some embodiments, the first brackets 32 can comprise at least one
access aperture 58 and the second brackets 34 can comprise at least
one alternative mounting aperture 60. Moreover, in some
embodiments, at least a portion of the tabs 46 can be reconfigured.
For example, in some embodiments, the tabs 46 can be moved (e.g.,
bent, pushed, pulled, etc.) so that the tabs 46 no longer laterally
extend from the second brackets 34 but are substantially flush with
the second brackets 34 (e.g., the tabs 46 can be moved from a
substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical
position).
[0059] As shown in FIG. 3B, in some embodiments, the first mounting
brackets 32 can comprise few numbers of access apertures 58. For
example, as shown in FIG. 3B, one or more of the first mounting
brackets 32 can comprise two access apertures 58. As a result, in
some embodiments, the structural strength of the mounting brackets
32 can be increased because of the greater amounts of materials
present, relative to embodiments with more than two access
apertures 58. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more of the
first mounting brackets 32 can comprise a rib 59. For example, as
shown in FIG. 3B, the rib 59 can extend some or all of a lateral
distance of the first mounting bracket 32 to enhance structural
strength of the bracket 32 relative to some embodiments without the
rib 59.
[0060] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the mounting apparatus 24
can be configured to enable a retrofit installation. By way of
example only, in some embodiments, after removing a previous
lighting and/or ventilating system, the mounting apparatus 24 can
be affixed to the building structures. For example, in some
embodiments, because the tabs 46 can comprise a substantially
vertical position after reconfiguration, one of the second brackets
34 can be positioned substantially adjacent to one of the building
structures. In some embodiments, fasteners can be used to couple
the mounting apparatus 24 to the building structure by inserting
the fasteners through at least one of the alternative mounting
apertures 60 and the tab apertures 50 (e.g., an user/installer can
access the alternative mounting apertures 60 via the access
apertures 58). Then, in some embodiments, the support members 54
can be extended similar to some previously mentioned embodiments
until the opposing second bracket 34 contacts an adjacent building
structure and the mounting apparatus 24 can be coupled to the
adjacent building structure in a substantially similar fashion.
After securing the mounting apparatus 24, in some embodiments, the
housing 12 can be coupled to the mounting apparatus 24 in a
substantially similar fashion to some previously mentioned
embodiments (e.g. via the first and the third brackets 32, 36).
[0061] In some embodiments, the housing 12 can be coupled to the
building structure without the mounting apparatus 24. In some
embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise a plurality of dimples 62,
as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the housing 12 can
comprise four dimples 62 on two substantially opposing sides that
are disposed substantially adjacent to the build structures. In
some embodiments, the dimples 62 can comprise pre-stressed regions
of the housing 12. For example, in some embodiments, the dimples 62
can function to enable a user/installer to more easily drive
fasteners (e.g., screws, nails, bolts, etc.) through the housing 12
and into the building structure because the tip of the fastener
will not wander out of the dimples 62. Moreover, because the
dimples 62 are pre-stressed regions, it may be at least partially
easier to drive the fasteners through the dimples 62 relative to
driving fasteners through other regions of the housing 12.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can
comprise indicators 63 to aid the user in identifying the location
of the dimples 62. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the indicators
63 can be configured as arrows pointed toward some or all of the
dimples 62 and can be positioned substantially adjacent to the
dimples 62 for easy dimple 62 identification. In some embodiments,
as shown in FIG. 8, the indicators 63 can be positioned between the
dimples 62 and adjacent walls of the housing 12. In some
embodiments, the indicators 63 can be positioned substantially
between the dimples 62 and the receiving member 142 (not shown). In
other embodiments, the indicators 63 can be positioned in any of a
variety of locations to identify the dimples 62.
[0063] In some embodiments, multiple elements of the system 10 can
be disposed within and/or coupled to the housing 12. For example,
in some embodiments, the electrical connections 20 of the system 10
can be at least partially positioned through portions of the
housing 12. In some embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise an
electrical aperture 64 configured and arranged to receive a panel
66, which can be configured and arranged to at least partially
receive and support the electrical connections 20. As shown in FIG.
9, in some embodiments, an area substantially adjacent to a lower
region (e.g., a lower corner) of the housing 12 can comprise the
electrical aperture 64. In other embodiments, the electrical
aperture 64 can be disposed in other locations that can enable
electrical connections 20 to couple to elements of the system 10.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the electrical aperture 64 can be
dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the panel 66.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise
features 68 configured and arranged to couple the panel 66 to the
housing 12. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10,
the features 68 can comprise two sets of substantially identical
apertures adjacently disposed at lateral edges of the electrical
aperture 64. In some embodiments, the features 68 can be configured
and arranged to receive different elements, as shown in FIG. 10.
For example, in some embodiments, a first aperture 68a of each of
the sets can comprise a substantially annular configuration and a
second aperture 68b of each of the sets can comprise a
substantially elongated and/or oblong configuration to receive
different elements. Furthermore, as detailed in greater detail
below, by including substantially identical apertures 68a, 68b
adjacent to edges of the electrical aperture 64, the panel 66 can
be coupled to the housing 12 in multiple configurations.
[0064] In some embodiments, the panel 66 can comprise a first body
70 and a second body 72, as shown in FIG. 11. In some embodiments,
the first body 70 can be coupled to the second body 72 so that the
bodies 70, 72 are substantially perpendicular to each other. In
some embodiments, the bodies 70, 72 can be substantially integral
with each other so that the panel 66 comprises a substantially
planar body 70 that can receive a force (e.g., bent, pushed,
pulled, etc.) to configure the panel 66 in a substantially
perpendicular configuration (e.g., an "L-shaped" configuration).
For example, in some embodiments, the first body 70 can be oriented
approximately ninety degrees from the second body 72.
[0065] In some embodiments, the first body 70 and the second body
72 can comprise different configurations. In other embodiments, the
first body 70 and the second body 72 can comprise a substantially
similar configuration. In some embodiments, the first body 70 can
comprise at least one clamp aperture 74, at least one panel
aperture 76, and grounding apertures 78. For example, as shown in
FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the clamp aperture 74 can be disposed
through the first body 70 in a generally central location and can
be configured and arranged to receive and support at least a
portion of the electrical connections 20. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the grounding apertures 78 can be disposed
substantially adjacent to the clamp aperture 74 and can be
dimensioned to receive a ground screw (not shown) and wiring for
use in grounding the electrical connections 20 and
electricity-requiring components of the system 10 (e.g., the
ventilating assembly 14). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the
panel aperture 76 can be disposed through a portion of the first
body 70 at a point substantially distal from the second body 72.
Additionally, in some embodiments, a region of the first body 70
substantially adjacent to the panel aperture 76 can comprise a
reduced width and/or length relative to other portions of the first
body 70 (e.g., the region adjacent to the panel aperture 76 can
comprise a substantially angled or pointed configuration, as shown
in FIG. 11).
[0066] In some embodiments, the second body 72 can comprise similar
and different elements. As shown in FIG. 11, in some embodiments,
the second body 72 can comprise grounding apertures 78, positioning
flanges 80, and a knock-out region 82. In some embodiments, the
knock-out region 82 can comprise pre-cut or pre-distressed elements
that can enable a user to remove the knock-out region 82 so that
the second body 72 can comprise a clamp aperture 74 substantially
similar to the clamp aperture 74 of the first body 70. For example,
in some embodiments, portions of a perimeter of the knock-out
region 82 can comprise a reduced thickness relative to a thickness
of the second body 72 and the knock-out region 82 can comprise a
substantially centrally located knock-out aperture 84. In some
embodiments, a user can insert a device (e.g., a screwdriver)
within the knock-out aperture 84 to exert a force that can at least
partially displace and help remove the knock-out region 82 to form
a clamp aperture 74. Further, in some embodiments, the positioning
flanges 80 can extend from the second body 72 and can be positioned
so that they are substantially perpendicular to the second body 72
and substantially parallel to the first body 70. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the positioning flanges 80 can extend in substantially
opposite directions. For example, in some embodiments, relative to
a horizontal axis of the second body 72, one positioning flange 80
can extend above the horizontal axis of the second body 72 and
another positioning flange 80 can extend below the horizontal axis
of the second body 72.
[0067] In some embodiments, the positioning flanges 80 and the
panel aperture 76 can provide for coupling of the panel 66 to the
housing 12. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, in some embodiments, at
least one of the flanges 80 can be disposed through one of the
features 68 of the housing 12. For example, in some embodiments,
one of the flanges 80 can be inserted through one of the features
68 (e.g., second aperture 68b), which can at least partially
provide for positioning of the panel 66 with respect to the
electrical aperture 64 (e.g., disposing the panel 66 over at least
a portion of the aperture 64). Moreover, in some embodiments,
before and/or after disposing at least one of the flanges 80
through one of the features 68b, the panel aperture 76 can
substantially align with another feature 68 (e.g., the first
aperture 68a on the opposite side of the electrical aperture 68). A
fastener (e.g., a screw, a nail, a bolt, etc.) can be disposed
through the panel aperture 76 and the feature 68a to couple
together the panel 66 and the housing 12. As a result, in some
embodiments, after coupling the panel 66 to the housing 12, the
electrical connections 20 can be coupled to, extend through, and/or
be supported by the clamp aperture 74 and the first body 70. For
example, in some embodiments, the electrical connections 20 can
electrically couple an electrical network of the structure into
which the system 10 is installed to at least a portion of the
electricity-requiring components of the system 10 (e.g., the
ventilating assembly 14, the illumination device 18, etc.).
[0068] Additionally, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be
coupled to the housing 12 in at least two different orientations.
As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can
comprise both first apertures 68a and second apertures 68b adjacent
to substantially opposite regions of the electrical aperture 64. As
a result, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to the
housing 12 in at least two different orientations because the
flanges 80 and the panel aperture 74 can align with the apertures
68a, 68b on either side of the electrical aperture 64. For example,
as shown in FIG. 12A, in some embodiments, the first body 70 of the
panel 66 can be oriented substantially parallel to a horizontal
axis 75 of the housing 12, and as a result, the clamp aperture 74
can be disposed through a top portion of the housing 12 and the
second body 72 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the
horizontal axis 75 of the housing 12. In other embodiments, as
shown in FIG. 12B, the first body 70 of the panel 66 can be
oriented substantially perpendicular to the horizontal axis 75 of
the housing 12, and as a result, the clamp aperture 74 can be
disposed through a sidewall portion of the housing 12 and the
second body 72 can be oriented substantially parallel to the
horizontal axis 75 of the housing 12. As a result of these multiple
orientations, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to
the housing 12 in different manners to suit user needs. For
example, if the electrical connections 20 are positioned in the
building structure that restrict the location of the clamp aperture
74 to a given location (e.g., along the sidewall or the top portion
of the housing 12), the panel 66 can be coupled to the housing 12
to suit these requirements. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the
user/installer can also remove the knock-out region 82 to create
two clamp apertures 74 for use with multiple electrical connections
20 or to introduce another clamp aperture 74 after coupling the
panel 66 to the housing 12.
[0069] In some embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to the
housing 12 in multiple configurations to enable installation of the
system 10 in different situations. In some embodiments, the panel
66 can be configured and arranged to be coupled to an inner surface
88 of the housing 12. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B,
in some embodiments, during installation, the panel 66 can be
disposed immediately adjacent to the inner surface 88 and coupled
to the housing 12 using at least one of the flanges 80 and the
panel aperture 76, as previously mentioned (e.g., the fastener can
be driven from an interior of the housing 12 toward an exterior of
the housing 12). Moreover, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be
disposed in at least two different orientations, as previously
mentioned (e.g., the first body 70 can be either parallel or
perpendicular to the horizontal axis 75 of the housing 12).
[0070] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 12C and 12D, in some
embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to an outer surface 86 of
the housing 12. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12C and 12D, in some
embodiments, during installation, the panel 66 can be disposed
immediately adjacent to the outer surface 86 of the housing 12 and
coupled using at least one of the flanges 80 and the panel aperture
76, as previously mentioned (e.g., the fastener can be driven from
the exterior of the housing 12 toward the interior of the housing
12). Moreover, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be disposed in
at least two different orientations, as previously mentioned (e.g.,
the first body 70 can be either parallel or perpendicular to the
horizontal axis 75 of the housing 12).
[0071] In some embodiments, the system 10 can be installed in
multiple building structure configurations because of the panel 66
and the housing 12 being configured and arranged to enable multiple
configurations and orientations of the panel 66 coupled to the
housing 12. For example, as previously mentioned with respect to
the mounting apparatus 24, in some embodiments, the system 10 can
be installed in a structure that is not yet complete (e.g.,
portions of the structure, such as walls, dry wall, ceilings, etc.
are not yet installed). As a result, the installer can have
relatively easy access to multiple portions of the system 10
before, during, and/or after installation, such as the outer
surface 86 of the housing 12. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the
panel 66 can be coupled to the outer surface 86 of the housing 12
if that is a desirable configuration for the user/installer. For
example, in some embodiments, it can be easier for the
installer/user to couple the panel 66 to the outer surface 86, if
that option is available. Moreover, in some embodiments, the panel
66 can be coupled to the housing 12 in an orientation so that the
clamp aperture 74 can be disposed in a location that enables
installation of the electrical connections 20. For example, in some
embodiments, the electrical connections 20 can extend from a
portion of the structure that requires the clamp aperture 74 to be
parallel or perpendicular to the horizontal axis 75 of the housing
12, and, accordingly, the panel 66 can be coupled to the housing 12
to provide the clamp aperture 74 in the needed orientation.
[0072] Additionally, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be
coupled to the housing 12 after the mounting apparatus 24 has been
coupled to the building structure. As previously mentioned, in some
embodiments, the system 10 can be installed within a building
structure that is already substantially complete (e.g., a retrofit
installation). Moreover, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be
coupled to the inner surface 88 of the housing 12 before or after
coupling the mounting apparatus 24 and the housing 12 to the
building structure. In some embodiments, after coupling the housing
12 to the building structure, the panel 66 can be coupled to the
inner surface 88 of the housing 12 to enable installation of the
electrical connections 20. For example, in some embodiments, it can
be difficult to couple the panel 66 to the outer surface 86 after
coupling the housing 12 to the building structure (e.g., it can be
difficult to access the electrical aperture 64 from an exterior
direction). As a result, in some embodiments, the user/installer
can couple the panel 66 to the inner surface 88 in a manner similar
to some previously mentioned embodiments. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to the housing 12 in an
orientation so that the clamp aperture 74 can be disposed in a
location that enables installation of the electrical connections
20. For example, in some embodiments, the electrical connections 20
can extend from a portion of the structure that requires the clamp
aperture 74 to be parallel or perpendicular to the horizontal axis
75 of the housing 12, and, accordingly, the panel 66 can be coupled
to the housing 12 to provide the clamp aperture 74 in the needed
orientation.
[0073] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the panel 66 can enable
installation in building structures comprising multiple
configurations. For example, when the installer can access the
exterior portions of the housing 12, the panel 66 can be coupled to
the outer surface 86 of the housing 12, with the clamp aperture 74
capable of being in at least two different positions. Moreover, in
some embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to the inner surface
88 of the housing 12, with the clamp aperture 74 capable of being
in at least two different positions, when the installer can more
easily access the interior portions of the housing 12. Furthermore,
in some embodiments, the panel 66 can be coupled to the inner
surface 88 or the outer surface 86 regardless of installer access
to exterior and/or interior portions of the housing 12. For
example, the installer can couple the panel 66 to the outer surface
86 in a retrofit installation or the installer can couple the panel
66 to the inner surface 88 in a non-retrofit installation (e.g.,
the type of installation does not limit the portion of the housing
12 to which the panel 66 can be coupled).
[0074] In some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise an
electrical connections compartment 90. In some embodiments, as
shown in FIGS. 6 and 13, the electrical connections compartment 90
can comprise at least a portion of the electrical connections 20
that enter the housing via the clamp aperture 74 of the panel 66.
In some embodiments, the compartment 90 can be coupled to the inner
surface 88 of the housing 12 so that the compartment 90 is
positioned substantially adjacent to the panel 66. In some
embodiments, the electrical connections compartment 90 can be
configured and arranged to receive the electrical connections 20
and support at least one electrical receptacle 92. In some
embodiments, the compartment 90 can comprise two electrical
receptacles 92. In some embodiments, the receptacles 92 can be
coupled to the compartment 90. For example, as shown in FIG. 13,
the electrical connections 20 can extend through the clamp aperture
74 and enter the electrical connections compartment 90. The
electrical connections 20 can extend through at least a portion of
the compartment 90 and engage the receptacles 92 coupled to the
compartment 90. As a result, in some embodiments, the receptacles
92 can comprise an outlet for connecting other elements of the
system 10 to provide electricity. In some embodiments, the
receptacles 92 can be configured and arranged to provide
electricity to at least the ventilating assembly 14 and/or the
illumination device 18. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the
receptacles 92 can comprise multiple recesses 94 that can receive
portions of wiring that can electrically couple to at least some of
the electricity-requiring elements of the system 10. In some
embodiments, the electrical connection compartment 90 substantially
encloses the electrical connections 20 to prevent inadvertent
contact with other elements of the system 10.
[0075] In some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise a motor
control compartment 96, as shown in FIG. 14. In some embodiments,
the motor control compartment 96 can comprise a body 96a and a
cover 96b. In some embodiments, the body 96a can be disposed in a
corner of the housing 12. By way of example only, in some
embodiments, the body 96a can be coupled to the inner surface 88 in
a corner of the housing 12 that is substantially diagonally
opposing the electrical connections compartment 90. In some
embodiments, a motor control apparatus (not shown) can be disposed
within the motor control compartment 96. As described in further
detail below, the motor control apparatus can control different
operational parameters of the motor 28 and the ventilating assembly
14. In some embodiments, the cover 96b can be coupled to the inner
surface 88 so that the cover 96b substantially encloses the body
96a and the motor control apparatus.
[0076] Moreover, in some embodiments, the cover 96b can comprise
several elements. In some embodiments, the cover 96b can comprise
at least one cover flange 98 at a lateral edge of the cover 96b.
For example, in some embodiments, the cover flange 98 can be used
by a user/installer for installation or removal of the cover 96b
(e.g., to access the motor control apparatus). In some embodiments,
the cover 96b can comprise at least one control aperture 100. For
example, as shown in FIG. 14, the cover 96b can comprise two
control apertures 100 through which the user/installer can access
the motor control apparatus without having to remove the cover 96b.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cover 96b can comprise a
label 102 corresponding to operational parameters of the motor 28.
As a result, the user/installer can access the motor control
apparatus via the apertures 100 and adjust the operational
parameters of the motor 28 to correspond with the markings on the
label 102. Additionally, in some embodiments, the motor control
compartment 96 can be electrically connected to at least one of the
receptacles 92 of the electrical connections compartment 90.
[0077] In some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise a duct
connector assembly 104. In some embodiments, the duct connection
assembly 104 can be coupled to the housing substantially adjacent
to the ventilation outlet 22 and in fluid communication with the
ventilating assembly 14, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments,
the duct connector assembly 104 can be configured and arranged to
fluidly connect the system 10 with the environment surrounding the
system 10. In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can
be coupled to a ventilating network of the building. For example,
in some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be coupled
to ductwork of the building. As a result, at least a portion of any
fluid (e.g., air) moving through the system 10 can exit the system
10 via the outlet 22 and the duct connector assembly 104 and flow
through the ductwork to exit the building.
[0078] In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can
comprise multiple regions. In some embodiments, the duct connector
assembly 104 can comprise a base region 106 and a connection region
108, as shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, the base region 106
and the connection region 108 can comprise different
configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, in some
embodiments, the base region 106 can comprise a substantially
square configuration and the connection region 108 can comprise a
substantially annular configuration. In other embodiments, the base
region 106 and/or the connection region 108 can comprise other
configurations (e.g., rectangular, elliptical, regular or irregular
polygonal, etc.).
[0079] In some embodiments, the shape of the regions 106, 108 can
be at least partially correlated to the elements to which the
regions 106, 108 can be coupled. By way of example only, in some
embodiments, the ventilation outlet 22 can comprise a substantially
square configuration and the base region 106 can substantially
correspond to that configuration. Moreover, in some embodiments,
the ductwork can comprise a substantially annular configuration and
the connection region 108 can substantially correspond to that
configuration. In other embodiments, the regions' 106, 108
configurations need not necessarily correspond to the shape of the
outlet 22 and the ductwork (e.g., the shapes of the regions 106,
108 are not limited by the shapes of the elements to which they can
be coupled).
[0080] In some embodiments, the base region 106 can comprise
elements to aid in coupling the duct connector assembly 104 to the
housing 12. In some embodiments, the base region 106 can comprise a
coupling flange 107 and a positioning tab 110, as shown in FIG.
17B. For example, in some embodiments, the base region 106 can
comprise the square-shaped configuration and the coupling flange
107 can laterally extend from a first side of the base region 106
and the positioning tab 110 can laterally extend from another side
of the base region 106 substantially opposite the first side of the
base region 106. Moreover, in some embodiments, the coupling flange
107 can comprise an aperture 112. For example, the aperture 112 can
be disposed through a portion of the flange 107 and can be
configured to receive a fastener (e.g., a screw, a nail, etc.) to
couple the base region 106 to the housing 12. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise an outlet aperture 114
disposed through a portion of the housing 12 substantially adjacent
to the ventilation outlet 22. In some embodiments, the housing 12
can also comprise an outlet recess 116 positioned on the housing 12
so that the recess 116 is on a substantially opposite side of the
outlet 22 relative to the aperture 114, as shown in FIG. 16.
[0081] In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be
coupled to the housing 12. In some embodiments, the base region 106
can be at least partially aligned and brought into position by
disposing the positioning tab 110 at least partially within the
outlet recess 116. In some embodiments, after disposing the tab 110
within the recess 116, the flange aperture 112 can substantially
align with the outlet aperture 114. As a result, in some
embodiments, a fastener can be disposed through the apertures 112,
114 to couple the base region 106 to the housing 12.
[0082] In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be
coupled to the housing 12 in multiple configurations. In some
embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be coupled to the
housing 12 so that the coupling flange 107 is disposed immediately
adjacent to one of the outer surface 86 or the inner surface 88.
Similar to the mounting apparatus 24 and the panel 66, in some
embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be coupled to the
housing 12 in different manners to accommodate installation in
building structures comprising different stages of completion. For
example, as previously mentioned with respect to the mounting
apparatus 24, in some embodiments, the system 10 can be installed
in a structure that is not yet complete (e.g., portions of the
structure, such as walls, dry wall, ceilings, etc. are not yet
installed). As a result, the installer can have relatively easy
access to multiple portions of the system 10 before, during, and/or
after installation, such as the outer surface 86 of the housing 12.
Accordingly, in some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104
can be coupled to the outer surface 86 of the housing 12 if that is
a desirable configuration for the user/installer. For example, in
some embodiments, from the exterior of the housing 12, the
positioning tab 110 can be disposed through the outlet recess 116
to substantially position the base region 106. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the coupling flange 107 can be disposed substantially
immediately adjacent to the outer surface 86 and a fastener can be
driven through the flange aperture 112 and the outlet aperture 114
from the exterior toward the interior of the housing 12, as shown
in FIG. 18.
[0083] Additionally, in some embodiments, the duct connector
assembly 104 can be coupled to the housing 12 after the mounting
apparatus 24 has been coupled to the building structure. As
previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the system 10 can be
installed within a building structure that is already substantially
complete (i.e., a retrofit installation). Moreover, in some
embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can be coupled to the
inner surface 88 of the housing 12 before or after coupling the
mounting apparatus 24 and the housing 12 to the building structure
and coupling the connection region 108 to the ductwork. In some
embodiments, after coupling the housing 12 to the building
structure, the duct connector assembly 104 can be coupled to the
inner surface 88 of the housing 12 to enable coupling of the
connection region 108 to the ductwork.
[0084] For example, in some embodiments, it can be difficult to
couple the duct connector assembly 104 to the outer surface 86
after coupling the housing 12 to the building structure (e.g., it
can be difficult to access the connection region 108 from an
exterior direction). Moreover, in some embodiments, in a retrofit
installation, coupling together the duct connector assembly 104 and
the ductwork can be difficult because of limited access to the
exterior of the housing 12. As a result, in some embodiments, the
user/installer can couple the duct connector assembly 104 to the
ductwork and then couple the base region 106 to the inner surface
88 by disposing the positioning tab 110 at least partially within
the outlet recess 116 and disposing the coupling flange 107
substantially immediately adjacent to the inner surface 88 so that
the fastener can be driven through the flange aperture 112 and the
outlet aperture 114 from the interior toward the exterior of the
housing 12, as shown in FIG. 17B.
[0085] In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can
comprise a duct adapter 118, as shown in FIG. 18. In some
embodiments, the duct adapter 118 can be reversibly or irreversibly
coupled to the connection region 108. In some embodiments, the duct
adapter 118 can be configured and arranged to enable coupling
variably-sized ductwork to the connection region 108. For example,
in some embodiments, the connection region 108 can comprise a
circumference greater than a circumference of the ductwork, which
can complicate fluidly coupling the duct connector assembly 104 to
the ductwork.
[0086] In some embodiments, the duct adaptor 118 can comprise a
first region 120, a second region 122, and a third region 124, as
shown in FIG. 18. In some embodiments, the first region 120 can be
configured and arranged to receive the connection region 108 to
couple the duct adapter 118 to the duct connector assembly 104. For
example, in some embodiments, the first region 120 can comprise a
diameter substantially similar to the diameter of the connection
region 108. As a result, in some embodiments, the connection region
108 and the first region 120 can be coupled together (e.g., via
conventional fasteners, adhesives, an interference fit, etc.). In
some embodiments, the second region 122 can comprise a diameter
less than that of the first region 120. By way of example only, in
some embodiments, the first region 120 can comprise a diameter of
approximately six inches and the second region 122 can comprise a
diameter of approximately four inches, although, in other
embodiments, the regions 120, 122 can comprise other diameters.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the third region 124 can be disposed
between the first and the second regions 120, 122. For example, as
shown in FIG. 18, in some embodiments, the third region 124 can
comprise a transition region where the diameter of the duct adaptor
118 can be variable. As shown in FIG. 18, in some embodiments, the
diameter of the third region 124 can lessen closer to the second
region 122. As a result, the duct adaptor 118 can enable coupling
the duct connector assembly 104 to ductwork of multiple sizes.
[0087] In some embodiments, the duct connector assembly 104 can
comprise a damper assembly 126, as shown in FIG. 19. In some
embodiments, the damper assembly 126 can be movably coupled to the
duct connector assembly 104. In some embodiments, the damper
assembly 126 can comprise a flap 128 movably coupled to the duct
connector assembly 104. By way of example only, in some
embodiments, the flap 128 can be coupled to mounts 130 disposed
through portions of the duct connector assembly 104 and the mounts
130 can be configured and arranged so that the flap 128 can rotate
about an axis of the mounts 130. In some embodiments, the flap 128
can comprise different materials, such as, but not limited to a
metal, such as sheet metal, a polymer, or other materials.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the mounts 130 can comprise
resilient bushings that can at least partially enhance operation of
the flap 128. For example, the resilient bushings can at least
partially reduce some or all of the audible output (e.g.,
operational noise) of the flap 128 during operations of the system
10.
[0088] Further, in some embodiments, the flap 128 can be coupled to
the duct connector assembly 104 so that the flap 128 can
substantially seal the system 10 from the ductwork. For example, in
some embodiments, when the ventilating system 14 is substantially
inactive (e.g., little to no air is flowing through the system 10),
the flap 128 can be positioned to substantially seal the duct
connector assembly 104 (e.g., the flap 128 can be in a
substantially vertical position). In some embodiments, after
activation of the ventilating system 14, a fluid, such as air, can
flow through the system 10 and exit the housing 12 via the duct
connector assembly 104. As a result, the air exiting the system 10
can provide enough force for the flap 128 to move from the
substantially sealed positioned (e.g., the substantially vertical
position) to an angled position to enable air to flow from the
system 10. Moreover, in some embodiments, the flap 128 can comprise
a material, a shape, a position, and a mass great enough so that
after air flow ceases, the flap 128 can substantially automatically
return to the substantially sealed position to once again seal the
system 10 from the ductwork. Additionally, in some embodiments, the
flap 128 can comprise a sealing panel 132 configured and arranged
to further seal the duct connector assembly 104. For example, in
some embodiments, the sealing panel 132 can be coupled to a face of
the flap 128 to enhance sealing of the system 10. In some
embodiments, the sealing panel 132 can comprise a foam-like
material or other material that is capable of flexibly engaging the
flap 128 and the duct connector assembly 104.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 20, in some embodiments of the invention,
the ventilating assembly 14 can be coupled to the housing 12 and
can include a centrifugal fan or fan apparatus 134 operatively
coupled to the motor 28. In some embodiments, any other type of fan
other than a centrifugal fan 134 can be employed, including
propeller-type fans.
[0090] In some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can
comprise a support plate 136 coupled to a substantially arcuate,
upstanding wall 138. Moreover, in some embodiments, the motor 28
can be coupled to and/or supported by the support plate 136, as
shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. In some embodiments, the motor 28 can be
operatively coupled to the fan 134 so that the fan 134 is disposed
substantially adjacent to the wall 138 of the ventilating assembly
14. In some embodiments, the support plate 136 together with the
upstanding wall 138, can define a scroll housing for generating
airflow. In some embodiments, the fan 134 can be positioned
relative to the upstanding wall 138 to form a scroll inlet to
receive air from the surrounding environment, and a scroll outlet
to discharge air out of the ventilating outlet 22.
[0091] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the elements of
the ventilating assembly 14 can comprise features that can aid in
positioning the assembly 14 and the mounting apparatus 24.
Referring to FIG. 28, in some embodiments, the support plate 136
and/or the wall 138 can comprise positioning features 137. For
example, in some embodiments, the support plate 136 can comprise a
positioning feature 137a that can engage with at least a portion of
the outer surface 86 substantially adjacent to the outlet 22, as
shown in FIG. 28. Similarly, in some embodiments, the wall 138 can
comprise a similar positioning feature 137b that can engage with at
least a portion of the housing 12 (e.g., the outer surface 86). As
a result, in some embodiments, the ease with which the housing 12
can be coupled to the mounting apparatus 24 can be at least
partially enhanced.
[0092] In some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can
comprise a plurality of ribs 139. For example, as shown in FIG. 20,
in some embodiments, at least a portion of the wall 138 can
comprise substantially horizontal ribs 139a and/or substantially
vertical ribs 139b. In some embodiments, the ribs 139a, 139b can at
least partially provide structural support and improve operations
of the ventilating assembly 14. For example, the ribs 139a, 139b
can at least partially reinforce some horizontal and vertical
surfaces, which, in some embodiments, can reduce or prevent
vibration and noise during assembly 14 operation.
[0093] In some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can
comprise a substantially integral unit. For example, as shown in
FIGS. 20 and 21, in some embodiments, the wall 138, the plate 136,
the motor 28, and the fan 134 can be delivered to the
user/installer as a substantially single unit (e.g., preassembled).
As a result, in some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can
be readily installed and uninstalled from the system 10 without
significant concern for assembling the individual elements of the
ventilating assembly 14. In some embodiments, the wall 138, the
support plate 136, and/or the fan 134 can comprise different
materials. In some embodiments, at least a portion of these
elements can comprise injection-molded polymers, sheet metal, or
any other suitable material. For example, in some embodiments, the
wall 138, the support plate 136, and/or the fan 134 can comprise a
polymer so that production costs and the weights of these elements
can be reduced relative to embodiments comprising other materials,
such as sheet metal.
[0094] In some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can be
coupled to the housing 12. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG.
20, the ventilating assembly 14 can comprise at least one coupling
tab 140 configured and arranged to at least partially provide for
coupling the housing 12 and the ventilating assembly. In some
embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can comprise two coupling
tabs 140 extending from substantially opposite ends of the
ventilating assembly 14, as shown in FIG. 20. In some embodiments,
the coupling tabs 140 can be configured and arranged to
substantially automatically couple together the ventilating
assembly 14 and the housing 12. For example, in some embodiments,
the coupling tabs 140 can comprise a snap-fit configuration.
Further, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise receiving
members 142 extending inward from the inner surface 88. As a
result, in some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can be
positioned within the housing 12 so that the coupling tabs 140
substantially align with and engage the receiving members 142.
After engaging the receiving members 142, the coupling tabs 140 can
substantially automatically snap into position and at least
partially couple the ventilating assembly 14 to the housing 12.
[0095] In some embodiments, the interaction between the coupling
tabs 140 and the receiving members 142 can be supplemented or
replaced by other coupling techniques. For example, in some
embodiments, at least one of the receiving members 142 can comprise
a support aperture 144 and at least one of the coupling tabs 140
can comprise a support recess 146, as shown in FIG. 22. In some
embodiments, more than one of the coupling tabs 140 and receiving
members 142 can comprise a support aperture 144 and support recess
146, respectively. As a result, in some embodiments, after
positioning the coupling tabs 140 immediately adjacent to the
receiving members 142, a fastener (e.g., a screw, a nail, a bolt,
etc.) can be at least partially disposed through the support
apertures 144 and support recesses 146 to further couple together
the ventilating assembly 14 and the housing 12.
[0096] In some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can be at
least partially uncoupled from the housing 12. For example, in some
embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can be uncoupled from the
housing 12 by inserting a device (e.g., a tool, such as a
screwdriver) between the receiving members 142 and the coupling
tabs 140 to disengage these two elements, as shown in FIG. 23. As a
result, the ventilating assembly 14 can be relatively easy to
install and/or uninstall.
[0097] In some embodiments, at least some of the operational
parameters of the motor 28 and fan 134 can be controlled at the
motor control compartment 96. For example, in some embodiments,
power to the motor 28, and as a result, to the fan 134, can be
controlled by the motor control apparatus. As previously mentioned,
in some embodiments, all current flowing to the motor 28 can
locally originate from the motor control compartment 96 so that
control over the motor 28 can be provided by the motor control
apparatus. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, in some embodiments,
the user/installer can set a flow rate at which the ventilating
assembly 14 operates.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 14, the flow rate can be set by inserting a
device into at least one of the control apertures 100 to manually
adjust the rate. For example, in order to exhaust a greater amount
of air, the user/installer could adjust the motor control apparatus
to a greater flow rate, as measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM)
(e.g., adjust the rate to a greater CFM value). Accordingly, in
some embodiments, to exhaust air at a greater rate, the motor
control apparatus can provide greater amounts of current to the
motor 28 to operate at greater rate. Furthermore, in some
embodiments, the motor control apparatus can comprise a
potentiometer or a potentiometer-like element. As a result, in some
embodiments, the motor control apparatus can comprise the
capability to substantially or completely infinitely regulate over
an extended range of flow rates (e.g., 30 CFM-110 CFM) relative to
some conventional control apparatuses capable of only operating at
finite flow rates (e.g., 30 CFM, 50 CFM, 75 CFM, 100 CFM, etc.).
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the motor 28 can be configured
and arranged to generate a generally consistent airflow even under
potentially limiting static pressures (e.g., 0.25'' wg).
[0099] Additionally, in some embodiments, the user/installer can
set a predetermined time of operation. For example, in some
embodiments, the time of operation can be adjusted via another
control aperture 100. In some embodiments, the time selected can
comprise a time of operation (e.g., if the time selected is thirty
minutes, the motor 28 will operate for thirty minutes after
activation).
[0100] In some embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise one or more
mounting apertures 147 (e.g., four mounting apertures 147), as
shown in FIGS. 29a and 29B. For example, as shown in FIG. 29, the
mounting apertures 147 can be disposed through some portions of the
housing 12, such as, but not limited to, one or more mounting
apertures 147 through each side of the housing 12 (e.g., a
four-sided housing could comprise at least four mounting apertures
147). In other embodiments, the housing 12 can comprise other
numbers of mounting apertures 147 as desired by the user or
manufacturer. In some embodiments, the mounting apertures 147 can
be used to couple accessories 149 to the housing 12. For example,
as shown in FIG. 29B, an accessory 149, such as a radiation damper,
can be coupled to the housing 12 via the mounting apertures 147 to
enable the system 10 to be disposed in any variety of locations. In
other embodiments, other accessories 149 can be coupled to the
housing 12.
[0101] In some embodiments of the invention, a grille 148 can be
coupled to the housing 12. In some embodiments, the grille 148 can
be formed in a generally square-like shape, although the grille 148
can take any shape, including an oval shape, a hemispherical shape,
a spherical shape, a pyramidal shape, or any other shape. Further,
in some embodiments, the grille 148 can be configured so that it
substantially corresponds to the shape of the housing 12. The
grille 148 can comprise injection-molded polymers, sheet metal, or
any other suitable material.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the grille 148 can
be positioned over an open end of the housing 12. In some
embodiments, the open end of the housing 12 can be shaped and
dimensioned to be received within an open end of the grille 148.
The grille 148 can be secured to the housing 12 by one or more
snap-fit features on the grille 148 and/or the main housing 12.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the one or more snap-fit
features can be supplemented or replaced by any variety of
couplings, such as screws, bolts, rivets, pins, clamps, glue or
other adhesive, and any other similar coupling. In some
embodiments, the housing 12 and the grille 148 can be further
secured through other coupling practices such as welding,
soldering, brazing, adhesive or cohesive bonding material, any
combination of the foregoing, or any other similar coupling
practice.
[0103] By way of example only, in some embodiments, the grille 148
can be coupled to the housing 12 and/or the ventilating assembly 14
via at least one grille spring 150. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 24, in
some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can comprise at least
one spring support 152 and the grille 148 can comprise at least one
set of spring flanges 154. For example, in some embodiments, the
ventilating assembly 14 can comprise two spring supports 152 and
the grille 148 can comprise two sets of spring flanges 154. In some
embodiments, a portion of one of the grille springs 150 can engage
one set of the spring flanges 154 on the grille 148 and another
portion of the same grille spring 150 can engage the spring
supports 154 on the ventilating assembly 14. In some embodiments,
the same process can be repeated for any other grille springs 150
used in the coupling process. As a result, in some embodiments, the
grille 148 can remain coupled to the housing 12 and the ventilating
assembly 14 via the grille springs 150, but can be extended from
the housing 12 a distance substantially equivalent to at least a
portion of a length of the grille springs 150 (e.g., to enable
access to the interior components of the system 10).
[0104] In some embodiments of the invention, the grille 148 can
include at least one louver 156. In some embodiments, the grille
148 can comprise a plurality of louvers 156, as shown in FIG. 1. In
some embodiments, the louvers 156 can extend across an inlet 158,
which can be defined by the housing 12. The louvers 156 can be used
for receiving a flow of air. The louvers 156 can be located
anywhere on the grille 148. In some embodiments, the location of
the louvers 156 can be at least partially determined by airflow
path(s) which can be available from the louvers 156, through the
inlet 158, and into the ventilating assembly 14. In some
embodiments, the louvers 156 can be angled between about zero
degrees and about forty-five degrees from vertical when the system
10 is mounted in a horizontal ceiling, although the system 10 can
be mounted in other locations. In some embodiments, the louvers 156
can be positioned substantially around a perimeter of a lighting
aperture 160 of the grille 148. In some embodiments, the location
of the louvers 156 can be selected substantially based on
aesthetics, functionality, and other considerations which can be
important to a user and/or a manufacturer.
[0105] As best seen in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the louvers 156
can guide air into the system 10. Air can include moisture, steam,
exhaust, smoke, effluent, or anything similar. In some embodiments,
after passing through the louvers 156 and entering the inlet 158 of
the housing 12, the air can enter the ventilating assembly 14, as
previously mentioned.
[0106] According to some embodiments, the lighting aperture 160 can
be located in a generally central area of the grille 148, as shown
in FIG. 25. In other embodiments, the lighting aperture 160 can be
located generally anywhere on the grille 148. In yet other
embodiments, the lighting aperture 160 can include multiple
lighting apertures 160 located in either generally central areas of
the grille 148 or anywhere on the grille 148. In some embodiments,
the lighting aperture 160 can take a generally annular shape. In
other embodiments, the lighting aperture 160 can take other shapes,
including square, rectangular, polygonal, spherical, elliptical, or
any other shape. In some embodiments the shape of the lighting
aperture 160 can be selected based on the shape of the lamp housing
16.
[0107] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can be dimensioned
to be received by or coupled to the lighting aperture 160. In some
embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include a heat-resistant
material, heat shielding, and/or reflective surfaces to inhibit
heat from contacting various components of the system 10. In some
embodiments, the reflective surfaces can generally direct light out
of the system 10. In some embodiments, the lighting aperture 160
can generally support, hold, and/or retain the lamp housing 16. In
some embodiments, the lighting aperture 160 can include a mounting
flange 162 which can be used to support the lamp housing 16. The
mounting flange 162 can be located substantially entirely around an
inner perimeter of the lighting aperture 160 and can be integral
with the lighting aperture 160. In other embodiments, the mounting
flange 162 can comprise a plurality of mounting flanges located
around the inner perimeter of the lighting aperture 160.
[0108] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can be secured to
the mounting flange 162 by one or more snap-fit features on the
lamp housing 16 and/or the mounting flange 162. Additionally, in
some embodiments, the one or more snap-fit features can be
supplemented or largely replaced by any variety of coupling, such
as screws, bolts, rivets, pins, clamps, glue or other adhesive, and
any other similar fastener. In some embodiments, the lamp housing
16 and the mounting flange 162 can be further secured through other
coupling practices such as welding, soldering, brazing, adhesive or
cohesive bonding material, any combination of the foregoing, or any
other similar coupling practice.
[0109] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include one or
more lips, flared edges, flanges, or other features configured and
arranged to engage the mounting flange 162, as shown in FIG. 26. In
some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include a set of
peripheral flanges 164 to which the mounting flange 162 can be
attached. For example, in some embodiments, the mounting flange 162
can include a set of pins (not shown) that can be received by a set
of apertures (not shown) included on the second set of peripheral
flanges 164. In some embodiments, the connection between the pins
and the apertures can be further secured using any of the
previously mentioned coupling methods. Further, in some
embodiments, the mounting flange 162 and the lamp housing 16 can
include apertures through which any of the previously mentioned
fasteners or coupling apparatuses can be passed to secure the
mounting flange 162 to the lamp housing 16. In some embodiments,
the lamp housing 16 can be directly coupled to the lighting
aperture 160 and/or the grille 148 in any suitable manner (e.g.,
the lamp housing 16 can be physically retained in position between
the grille 148 and lens 26). Further, in some embodiments, the lamp
housing 16 can be directly coupled to the main housing 12 in any
suitable manner.
[0110] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include the
electrical socket 30 and at least one illumination device 18,
although some embodiments can include more than one electrical
socket 30 and one or more illumination devices 18. In some
embodiments, the electrical sockets 30 can be connected to the
electrical components 20 via at least one of the receptacles 92
disposed on the electrical compartment 90. The illumination devices
18 can contact the electric sockets 30, and, in some embodiments,
when activated by the user, the illumination devices 18 can provide
illumination to the room, area, or space. In some embodiments, the
illumination devices 18 can include incandescent, fluorescent,
compact fluorescent, halogen, and other lights and lamps. Further,
these lights can comprise flood lights, globe lights,
light-emitting diodes (LEDs), or other similar lighting
apparatuses, including a combination of any of the above.
[0111] Moreover, in some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise
other illumination configurations. For example, in some
embodiments, the system 10 can comprise a combination of LEDs and
other illumination devices as disclosed in U.S. patent application
Ser. Nos. 12/902,077 and 12/902,065 which are assigned to the
assignee of the present application. The entire contents of these
applications are hereby incorporated by reference in this
disclosure. Briefly, the system 10 can comprise the capability to
emit illumination at different intensities and at different times.
Also, in some embodiments, the system 10 can radiate multiple
colors of light at different intensities over a predetermined time
period.
[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 1, in some embodiments of the
invention, the lens 26 can be coupled to the system 10. In some
embodiments, the lens 26 can aid in diffusing illumination emitted
by the illumination devices 18. In some embodiments, the lens 26
can be coupled to the grille 148 in any of a number of the
above-discussed coupling techniques, including snap-fitting,
fasteners, or adhesives. Alternatively, the lens 26 can be
integrally formed with the grille 148.
[0113] In some embodiments, one or more power consuming devices,
including, but not limited to the motor 28, the illumination
devices 18, etc. can be powered by an internal electrical circuit
of a building. In some embodiments, as previously mentioned, the
electrical connections 20 can originate from the structure into
which the system 10 is installed and pass through the clamp
aperture 74 of the panel 66 at one side of the housing 12 and can
provide power for one or more of the power-consuming elements of
the system. In some embodiments, one or more switches, such as wall
switches can be used to activate or deactivate any of the
power-consuming devices. In some embodiments, two or more separate
switches can be used to control the ventilating assembly 14 and the
illumination devices 18. In some embodiments, one switch can be
used to control both elements.
[0114] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
while the invention has been described above in connection with
particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not
necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments,
examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments,
examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims
attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and
publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each
such patent or publication were individually incorporated by
reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention
are set forth in the following claims.
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